Midnight Runner, the seasoned nine-year-old galloper, is gearing up for what could be the final chapter of his racing career as he heads to Wingatui on Thursday.
With four placings in his last five starts, trainer John Phillips hopes to see Midnight Runner secure a victory in this upcoming race. However, the biggest challenge for the horse is his 61kg impost, which will be reduced to 59kg with the assistance of apprentice jockey Elen Nicholas' two-kilogram claim.
John Phillips expressed his confidence in Midnight Runner, saying, “He has been going really well and he is as honest as the day is long.
“The old fella has come through his run well. He is a pretty seasoned campaigner, and he is used to carrying big weights now.”
Phillips is particularly looking forward to having Elen Nicholas back in the saddle, as she has a good rapport with Midnight Runner.
“She has ridden him a couple of times for a couple of placings,” Phillips noted.
“She is going well – she has got a nice seat on her and gets down nice and low on the animals, and they run for her. It is good to have her on.”
While retirement is on the horizon for Midnight Runner, Phillips revealed his plans to bring the horse back for one final preparation next year before officially ending his racing career.
Reflecting on Midnight Runner's contribution, Phillips said, “He came down from Peter Williams' and they (former owners) actually gifted him to us. He has won about $250,000 in stakes and had 17 seconds and nine wins for us. His record is great.”
In addition to Midnight Runner, Phillips will also be represented by two other runners on Thursday, Tiger Fire and Darcee Que.
Tiger Fire is set to compete at a more favourable distance, while Darcee Que is expected to perform better on a firmer track over a mile.